The Singapore Airshow welcomes Airbus' new A330-200F freighter

The Singapore Airshow welcomes Airbus' new A330-200F freighter

The A330-200F is taking a starring role at the 2010 Singapore Airshow, with this new freighter version of the A330 jetliner making its public debut as the world's air cargo industry continues to recover after the recent economic recession.

Exhibited on the static display line at Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre, the A330-200F is attracting a steady flow of professional visitors to Airbus' first purpose-built cargo jetliner.

The aircraft brought to Singapore is the no. 1 A330-200F, which made its maiden flight last November and is to be delivered to Turkish Airlines in the Fall. After its appearance during the air show's professional days, the aircraft will remain for operational evaluations in Singapore's hot, humid conditions - which are to be performed on Saturday and Sunday. This follows successful cold weather testing with the same aircraft in northern Canada last month.

One of the A330-200F's most visible differences is its large main-deck cargo door, which allows the new Airbus freighter to accept all commonly-used pallets and containers - enabling the transportation of high-value consumer goods, higher-density general cargo, express packages and parcels, as well as perishables. The 141 X 101-inch door is electrically-controlled and hydraulically-operated, and is derived from the proven cargo door on A300/A310 freighters.

As the only new-generation freighter in its medium-lift weight category, the A330-200F will enable operators to efficiently handle growing demands in the now-recovering international air cargo industry, while also offering increased frequencies and providing a better match for market growth and supply chain demands.

"The A330 already is a workhorse as a passenger airliner with many airlines in the Asia-Pacific region and around the world, thanks to its flexibility, reliability and low operating costs," explained Tom Enders, Airbus President and CEO. "With deliveries of the new A330-200F to begin later in the year, this aircraft's availability is well timed - as the world's freight market is picking up once again."